Juniper Journal

Volume 16, Issue 6

Editor L.J. Stallion

February 2010 Edition

SCIENCE FAIR PROJECTS DUE FEBRUARY 24TH

From the Principal

Dear Juniper Families,

Juniper staff has been working hard to improve the level of instruction we offer our students. We have been aligning our math curriculum from kindergarten to sixth grade. We have been designing an essential skills document that guides our planning and helps us prioritize learning. We are striving for continual improvement and providing a quality education for each child. During the early release days this spring, teachers will take a critical look at instruction and assessment. Juniper staff want to provide the best instruction and meaningful feedback to our students.

The second half of the school year is a time for intensive focus on new skills and ensuring basic grade level skills are proficient or above. We appreciate families that take the initiative to partner with us and set high expectations for their child’s work ethic and foster a positive “I can” attitude toward learning.

For the kids,
Mr. Burt

Winter Weather

Just a reminder that with the approach of winter, students need to wear the appropriate clothing to school. Coats, hats, gloves and good shoes/boots are important to keep children warm and dry during the cold winter days. We send children out to recess unless the weather conditions are nasty and force us inside.
* Please put your child's name on all items of clothing.
* Check for lost clothing in the multipurpose room.

Please submit pictures for our Juniper yearbook. Pictures need to be in disc or electronic form. You can give/email them to your child’s teacher or to the school office. (Field trips, special events, school related activities, etc.)

Criterion Reference Testing – CRT - March 15th

The CRT is the state test that measures how well our students are learning. All third through sixth grade students will take the test. The test expects students to read and comprehend grade level informational text and calculate math problems along with written explanations of how they solved several math problems. The test is given over four to five days with each testing session being about two hours. Please help prepare your child to take these tests by ensuring all daily school work is completed and by communicating with your child’s teacher for specific skills to practice.

Homework:
Homework is for practicing skills learned in class.

Parents, please help your child by providing a quiet place to work. Having a consistent time each day builds a good habit for completing homework. Only assist students after they have given their best effort and always allow them time to think through the process. (Sometimes they just want us to give them the answer) Thank you!!

Angel Tree and Food Drive

Lena Juniper's Annual Angel Tree and Food Drive will begin on December 1. Look for Angels to appear in the Juniper foyer and we will begin to collect non-perishable food items on Monday, December 1. Thank you for your generosity in the past and we look forward to helping many families have joyous holidays this year. We will conclude our event on December 16, in time to deliver to families before the holiday break.

From the PTA President

The Jamboree exceeded our expectations! The participation that we received from the parents and the local merchants is appreciated. Because of the generosity and willingness of Juniper families, PTA parents, Juniper staff and community members to be involved, the Jamboree netted proceeds of $7,000.00. These funds will benefit all children at Juniper. We want to keep the level and quality of education high for all our kids. Thank you all for making it possible. The PTA is committed to serving our school and making it a better place.

Melissa Hoadley

Parent Involvement:
Juniper Elementary needs you!

Please consider taking a more active part and join our PTA board for next year. We are moms and dads who want the best for all the children. Talk to your child’s teacher or call Mr. Burt for more information.

What does the bond issue do for Juniper?

With Washoe voters passing the bond issue, Juniper Elementary will see some of the money in upgrades and school repairs. Our building is looking good for being 37 years old, but needs some help to maintain its smooth daily operation. We are also planning on receiving new fiber optic wiring for technology use.

As a district, new middle schools and elementary schools will be built. A proposed site in Spanish Springs and will help the crowding at Mendive in the near future.

Thank you for the vote of confidence for our schools and ultimately for the kids.

	Juniper's Student Leadership team will be presenting a NO BULLYING message to all students in the coming weeks. Eliminating bullying behavior is a responsibility for all students and adults. We will be sending information home for families to share and discuss.
	Never look down on someone Unless you're helping them up. ~Student Leadership Team~

Points of Interest

Science Fair (2/25)
All students are encouraged to make a science fair project. Each project will be judged and have a chance to go on to the Regional Science Fair.
Math Science Night (2/25)
A fun night for the whole family… hands-on interactive math and science activities. We’ll have the astronomers with telescopes to view the stars.